The document discusses how youth and the internet are influencing the 2008 US election. It finds that nearly a quarter of Americans are following the campaign online, compared to just 9% in 2000. For those under 30, the web is now the leading source of political news. Social media sites like Facebook, MySpace, and YouTube are also playing a role. Facebook in particular allows candidates to track supporter numbers by "friending". Surveys on MySpace showed Barack Obama with the most youth support. The youth vote, defined as ages 18-29, made up 21% of the 2006 electorate and an estimated 50 million in 2008. 58% typically vote Democrat. The youth population is also very diverse, with 39% identifying as